Fiestas Fundacionales in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 2024 (11 – 30 June)
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is gearing up for its annual Foundational Festivals, a vibrant celebration marking the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. From June 11th to 30th, 2024, the city will host over fifty cultural, sports, and leisure events to commemorate its 546th anniversary. This year’s program is particularly special as it also marks the 425th anniversary of the Dutch siege by Pieter Van der Does.
Various museums and cultural centers will offer special exhibitions and guided tours throughout the festival period.
Below is a detailed overview of the festivities, featuring everything from music and poetry to fireworks and cultural honors.
June 11: Opening Exhibition on the Dutch Siege – Tuesday
The festivities will begin on June 11th with the inauguration of an exhibition dedicated to the Dutch siege of 1599, curated by the esteemed archaeologist Artemi Alejandro Medina. The exhibit, titled “The Attack and Defeat of Van der Does in 1599,” will offer insights into the historical event that shaped the city’s character.
June 13: Agatha Christie Tribute
On June 13th, the “Encuentros Santa Catalina” will highlight the legacy of Agatha Christie, featuring the writer and professor Javier Campos Oramas, an expert on the famed author. This event will delve into Christie’s connection to the city and her literary contributions.
June 14: Official Opening Speech and Concert – Friday
The official opening of the festivals will be marked by a speech from Flora Pescador, a distinguished architect and native of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. This will be followed by a unique concert where the bells of the Cathedral will join the municipal bands of Las Palmas and Firgas in a composition by Laura Vega. The event will start at 8:30 PM in Plaza de Santa Ana.
June 15: Boleros Festival – Saturday
On June 15th, the Plaza de Santa Ana will resonate with the soulful melodies of boleros. This year’s festival features performances by ‘Los que no escarmientan,’ ‘Trío Estelar,’ and ‘Luis Villa.’ The music starts at 8:30 PM, and entry is free until the venue reaches capacity.
June 17: “Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Objects for 546 Years” Exhibition
This evocative exhibition at the Museo Castillo de Mata will delve into the curiosities of the city’s history, with a special focus on artifacts and stories from the past 546 years. The exhibition will be open from June 17th.
June 18: 27th International Poetry Prize of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria – Tuesday
Poetry enthusiasts can look forward to the 27th International Poetry Prize ceremony, held at the Centro Cultural Jesús Arencibia. The event begins at 7:00 PM, and attendance is free.
June 20: 12th International Photography Prize of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria – Thursday
The Centro Cultural Jesús Arencibia will also host the 12th International Photography Prize on June 20th at 7:00 PM. Like the poetry event, this ceremony is open to the public at no cost.
June 21: Music in the Heart of Vegueta – Friday
In celebration of International Music Day, various performances will be held across Vegueta starting at 7:00 PM. The venues include:
- Casas Consistoriales
- Patio de los Naranjos
- Fundación Mapfre
- Colegio de Abogados
- Casa de Colón
- Fundación Juan Negrín
These performances offer a unique opportunity to experience music in some of the most beautiful and historic settings in the city.
June 22: Concert by Olga Cerpa and Mestisay with Los Sabandeños – Saturday
The renowned singer Olga Cerpa and her group Mestisay will join forces with Los Sabandeños for a spectacular concert at Plaza de Santa Ana. The performance begins at 9:00 PM, and entry is free until the plaza is full.
June 23: A Day of Honors and Festivities – Sunday
On June 23rd, two major events will take place:
- Institutional Act of Honors and Distinctions: Held at the Auditorio Alfredo Kraus at 8:00 PM, this event will recognize notable contributions to the city. Attendance is by invitation only.
- Night of San Juan and Fireworks: The night sky over Playa de Las Canteras will light up with a grand fireworks display at midnight. Preceding the fireworks, there will be concerts by La Guardia and Los Salvapantallas at Plaza de la Música starting at 10:00 PM.
June 24: The City’s 546th Birthday
The city celebrates its 546th birthday on June 24th with a series of special events, including cultural, sporting, and leisure activities organized by various municipal departments. For more information, visit www.lpacultura.com.
June 27: Play “Como chispa de cañón” – Thursday
The play “Como chispa de cañón,” related to the 425th anniversary of the Dutch siege, will be performed at Castillo de La Luz.
June 29: LGTBIQ+ Pride Events – Saturday
The city’s vibrant LGTBIQ+ community will be celebrated with two significant events on June 29th:
- LGTBIQ+ Parade: Starting at 7:30 PM from Avenida Mesa y López, this parade will showcase the spirit of pride and inclusivity.
- Proud City Concert: Following the parade, the Parque del Estadio Insular will host a concert starting at 10:00 PM.
June 30: Holi Fest – Sunday
The festivities will conclude with the colorful Holi Fest at Plaza de Canarias. From 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, participants can enjoy a lively celebration filled with music, dance, and vibrant colors.
Join the people of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in celebrating the city’s history, culture, and community spirit through these diverse and exciting events. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Foundational Festivals offer something for everyone to enjoy.
